Ida Marguerite Bender, 96, died Dec. 16, 2013.
She was born Dec. 21, 1916, in Gem, W. Va., on to Walter and Carrie (Bull) Moyers. She married William H. Bender, who is deceased.
Mrs. Bender was a graduate of Glenville State College, Glenville, W. Va. She began her teaching career in her native West Virginia. She has been a resident of Plant City since 1946. Mrs. Bender taught the first class for special education in East Hillsborough County. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Plant City, Woman’s Club of Plant City, Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Kappa Delta Pi, an Honorary Educational Fraternity and a life member of Florida Retired Educators Association.
Mrs. Bender loved children, was an avid reader, loved gardening, crossword puzzles, watching TV football and playing bridge.
She is survived by a daughter, Ann Sharon Baker, of Plant City; two grandchildren, Michael Baker and Gretchen Baker; a niece, Radetta Nemcosky, of Burlington, Vt.; nephews, Robert Groves and Dr. Greg Groves, both of Romney, W. Va.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William; a brother, Paul S. Moyers; and two sisters, Audra Taylor and Anna Groves.
Funeral services were held Dec. 23, at Wells Memorial & Event Center, Plant City. Burial took place at Florida National Cemetery. Memorial may be made to First United Methodist Church Building Fund, Florida Children’s Home, Life Path Hospice or the charity of choice.